Political Science 2 Unit Notes ?
Political Science 2 Unit Notes ?
2 Indian
Federalism:structure,nature and
emerging trends
Indian Federalism is a political structure in which power is divided between two levels of
government:
The Indian Constitution defines which powers belong to the central government and which to the
states.
The purpose is to maintain national unity while also giving states autonomy to make decisions
at the local level.
👉 Example:
The central government handles subjects like foreign affairs and defense, while state
governments deal with areas like education and healthcare.
2. Structure of Indian Federaandm
1. Historical Background:
2. Constitutional Provisions:
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Union List: Subjects under the authority of the central
government (e.g., defense, foreign affairs, currency).
Indian Federalism is a "unique model". It is neither a purely federal system like that of the USA
nor a completely unitary one.
Instead, it is known as a "Quasi-Federal System", meaning it contains features of both federal
and unitary systems.
🟦 1. Single Constitution
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In contrast, countries like the USA have separate
constitutions for each state.
But in India, the same constitution applies to the whole
country, which reflects its unified character.
🟦 2. Division of Powers
The Indian Constitution divides powers between the center and the states.
This division is done through three lists:
1. Union List – for the central government
2. State List – for the state governments
3. Concurrent List – for both to legislate on
Though this indicates federalism, the final authority lies with the center in case of a
conflict.
🟦 3. Quasi-Federal Structure
🟦 4. Emergency Powers
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🟦 5. States Exist Because of the Constitution
🟦 6. Single Citizenship
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✍️Conclusion
So, Indian federalism is a practical, adaptable, and India-specific system, known as a "quasi-
federal system", balancing unity with diversity.
Certainly! Here’s the detailed English version of the answer on “Emerging Trends in Indian
Federalism”, written in easy and long language, covering only the emerging trends:
Over time, the federal system of India has been evolving. Earlier, the central government held
more control, but now many new trends are emerging that make Indian federalism more flexible,
cooperative, and practical.
Let’s understand these emerging trends one by one in a simple and detailed way:
🔹 1. Cooperative Federalism
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Meaning: The central and state governments now work together more closely than before.
The idea is that the country can progress better when both Centre and States collaborate in
making and implementing policies.
For example:
NITI Aayog (which replaced the Planning Commission) works to encourage coordination
between Centre and States.
Schemes like Swachh Bharat, Skill India, etc., require active participation of states.
✅ Benefit: It helps in creating better policies that suit the needs of all regions.
🔹 2. Competitive Federalism
Meaning: Now states are competing with each other to attract more investments and improve
development.
Each state wants to perform better than the others to get attention from the central government
and private investors.
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There is healthy competition in areas like:
Startup policies
Digital governance
✅ Benefit: This motivates states to perform better and results in faster overall development of the
country.
🔹 3. Fiscal Federalism
Meaning: States are now given more financial powers and responsibilities.
The central government is not just giving funds, but is encouraging states to manage their own
finances.
The 14th and 15th Finance Commissions have increased the share of central taxes given to the
states.
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✅ Benefit: States get more control over their budgets and can run their own schemes more
independently.
🔹 4. Political Federalism
Meaning: Regional political parties are becoming stronger and more involved in national
decision-making.
Parties like TMC, DMK, BJD, AAP, etc., are raising their voices for state rights and more
autonomy.
Bodies like the GST Council also include state representatives for fair decision-making.
✅ Benefit: It strengthens democracy and ensures that the voice of each region is heard at the
national level.
🔹 5. Digital Federalism
Meaning: Use of digital technology is improving coordination between the Centre and the States.
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e-Governance, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), and Digital India programs require active
cooperation between Centre and States.
e-Ration Cards
e-Health Systems
e-Scholarships
✅ Benefit: Brings transparency, faster services, and better governance for the people.
🔹 6. Environmental Federalism
Meaning: Centre and States are now working together on environment-related issues like climate
change and pollution.
States are being given funds and powers to protect the environment locally.
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Initiatives like State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCC) are examples of this trend.
✅ Benefit: Helps in addressing environmental issues more effectively at the local level.
✍️Conclusion
All these emerging trends show that Indian federalism is no longer just about division of powers,
➡️These changes are helping India become a stronger, more united, and more developed federal
country,
Where the Centre and the States support each other instead of
Of course! Here's the full English translation of the detailed explanation on Fundamental
Rights in easy language and long format:
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🇮🇳 What are Fundamental Rights? (Full Detailed
Explanation)
Fundamental Rights are special rights given to every citizen of India so that they can live their
life with dignity, freedom, equality, and justice.
These rights are mentioned in the Indian Constitution, especially in Part III (Articles 12 to 35).
They are not just legal rights, but constitutional guarantees. This means if anyone’s
fundamental rights are violated, they can go directly to the court to seek justice.
(Originally there were 7, but the Right to Property was removed as a Fundamental Right and
made a legal right.)
Now let’s understand each of them one by one in detail and simple language:
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Article 16: Equal opportunity in government jobs
Article 17: Abolition of untouchability
Article 18: Ban on titles (like ‘Sir’, ‘Raja’ etc.)
✅ Example: If a school or office selects people only from a specific caste, that would be illegal.
Article 19:
o Freedom of speech and expression
o Right to form associations
o Right to move freely in any state
o Right to reside anywhere in India
o Right to practice any profession or business
Article 20: Rights of people in criminal cases
Article 21: Right to life and personal liberty
Article 22: Right to protection in case of arrest
✅ Example: If someone is jailed without any reason, they can go to the Supreme Court for
justice.
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4. Right to Freedom of Religion – Articles 25 to 28
Meaning: Every person in India is free to follow and practice any religion.
✅ Example: A Muslim, Christian, Sikh, or Jain group can open their own school or college.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar called this right the "Heart and Soul
of the Constitution."
✅ Example: If someone stops you from peacefully protesting, you can file a case in court.
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📌 Summary Table:
Fundamental Right Meaning
Right to Equality All citizens are equal before the law
Freedom of speech, movement, and
Right to Freedom
profession
Right against
Ban on child labor and forced labor
Exploitation
Freedom to follow and practice any
Right to Religion
religion
Cultural & Educational Minorities can preserve culture and run
Rights schools
You can go to court if your rights are
Right to Remedies
violated
✍️Conclusion
Fundamental Rights allow every Indian citizen to live a free, dignified, and secure life.
They are the foundation of democracy, protecting individuals from injustice and giving them the
power to stand up for themselves.
Sure! Here's the full English translation of the detailed explanation of the Directive Principles
of State Policy (DPSP) in long and easy language with simple structure for easy
understanding:
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✅ What are Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)?
Directive Principles of State Policy are a special part of the Indian Constitution that gives
guidelines to the government about how to run the country to ensure justice, equality, and
welfare for all people.
➡️Their main aim is to create a Welfare State and a Just Society in India.
DPSPs are usually divided into 3 main categories for easy understanding:
🟩 1. Socialistic Principles
These principles aim to promote social and economic equality and help create a welfare state.
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Article What it Says
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Article
Right to work, education, and public assistance
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Article
Humane working conditions and maternity relief
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Article
Living wages and good working conditions
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Article Improve nutrition and public health; ban harmful drugs
47 and alcohol
✅ Example: Schemes like MGNREGA provide jobs to poor people – this follows Article 41.
🟨 2. Gandhian Principles
These are based on the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi, focusing on village development, khadi,
and rural industries.
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✅ Example: Promotion of Khadi and rural industries follows Gandhian principles.
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Important
Type Focus Area
Articles
welfare
Liberal- 44, 45, 48A, 49, Education, environment,
Intellectual 50, 51 peace
✖️No, DPSP is non-justiciable, which means you cannot go to court if they are not followed.
✔️But it is the duty of the government to apply them in making laws and running the country.
🏁 Conclusion:
Directive Principles of State Policy are like a moral guide for the government to build a fair,
equal, and welfare-based society.
Even though these are not legally enforceable, they are very important for good governance and
show the vision of the Constitution for a better India.
Sure! Here's the full English translation of the explanation on Fundamental Duties of Indian
Citizens, in long and easy language for better understanding:
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❓ What are Fundamental Duties?
Fundamental Duties are the moral responsibilities of every Indian citizen.
Just like we enjoy Fundamental Rights, we also have duties towards our country, society, and
Constitution.
➡️These duties are mentioned in the Part IV-A (Article 51A) of the Indian Constitution.
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No. Fundamental Duty In Simple Words
national service when called upon. country during a crisis.
To promote harmony and Live with love and
5️⃣ brotherhood among all people and peace; treat everyone
avoid untouchability. equally.
Respect and promote
To value and preserve the rich
6️⃣ India’s art, music,
heritage of our composite culture.
dance, and traditions.
To protect and improve the natural Plant trees, protect
7️⃣ environment including forests, animals, and avoid
lakes, rivers, and wildlife. pollution.
Think logically, avoid
To develop scientific temper,
8️⃣ superstition, and
humanism, and spirit of inquiry.
believe in science.
Don’t damage public
To safeguard public property and
9️⃣ things like buses, trains,
avoid violence.
or schools.
To strive towards excellence in all
Always do your best in
🔟 areas of individual and collective
study, sports, or work.
activity.
To provide opportunities for
Send children to school
1️⃣1️⃣ education to children aged 6–14
and support education.
years. (Added in 2002)
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3. ✔️But Parliament can make laws to enforce them (example:
Environmental Protection Act).
4. 🙏 They help build a sense of patriotism, responsibility,
and national unity.
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🏁 Conclusion:
Fundamental Duties are not just written rules – they are moral responsibilities that help us
become better citizens.
They remind us that the country is not just run by the government, but by all of us together.
A good citizen is not only the one who knows their rights, but also the one who performs their
duties with honesty.
➡️So, let us fulfill our duties and contribute to a strong, united, and developed India.
Sure! Here’s the detailed, easy-to-understand, and long explanation of “What is Amendment of
Constitution?” converted into English:
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To improve or replace any outdated or ineffective part of the
Constitution.
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Depending on the nature of the amendment, the required
majority may be a simple majority, special majority, or
special majority plus state approval.
4. President’s Assent
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2. Amendment by Special Majority
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The basic structure includes democracy, secularism,
independence of judiciary, and other fundamental principles.
🏁 Summary
Constitutional Amendment means making changes to some parts of the Constitution to keep it
relevant and effective for the country's current needs.
It is a serious and organized process involving Parliament, sometimes state legislatures, and the
President.
This process is essential for the development, democracy, and stability of the nation.
UNITE :2
2.1:INDIAN PARLIAMENT:COMPETITION,POWER,LEGISLATIVE
PROCEDURE::
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2. Composition of the Indian Parliament
The Indian Parliament consists of three parts:
Legislative Powers:
Making new laws, amending existing laws, or repealing old laws.
Financial Powers:
Approving the budget, imposing taxes, and deciding on government expenditure.
Executive Powers:
Monitoring the government’s functioning and holding ministers accountable.
Judicial Powers:
Parliament has some judicial powers, such as establishing courts or making decisions in
certain cases.
Amendment Powers:
Amending the Constitution under Article 368.
4. Legislative Procedure
The process of making a law in Parliament includes several important steps:
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Step 1: Introduction of the Bill
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Step 7: Presidential Assent
5. Summary
Topic Details
What is Highest law-making body representing the
Parliament? people.
Composition Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, President.
Legislative, Financial, Executive, Judicial,
Powers
Amendment.
Legislative Introduction → Committee → Debates → Voting →
Process Presidential Assent.
Conclusion
The Indian Parliament is the most important democratic institution in India that makes laws,
holds the government accountable, and takes important decisions for the country’s progress. Its
two-house structure and the inclusion of the President make it a strong and balanced institution.
Sure! Here is the full detailed explanation about the President of India in easy English, covering
who the President is, their powers, position, and roles, step by step:
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Who is the President? (Full Detailed
Explanation)
The President is called the Head of State, meaning they represent the whole country. However,
the day-to-day administration is done by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet. The President is the
ceremonial leader who maintains the dignity of the nation in important events, international
meetings, and national matters.
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(a) Legislative Powers
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(e) Discretionary Powers
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6. Security and Protocol for the President
Summary Table:
Topic Details
Constitutional head and representative of the
Definition
country.
Term 5 years, can be re-elected.
Position Highest constitutional authority in India.
Legislative, Executive, Defence, Judicial, and
Powers
Discretionary powers.
Protects Constitution, appoints government,
Important Roles
represents India, declares emergencies.
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Topic Details
Election Elected by MPs and MLAs (Electoral College).
Resignation & Can resign; Vice-President acts as interim
Vacancy President if vacancy occurs.
Conclusion:
The President of India is the constitutional and ceremonial head who represents the nation and
protects the Constitution. The President holds important powers and responsibilities that help
maintain the unity, stability, and democratic system of the country. Although the actual
administration is handled by the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the President is a strong
constitutional pillar holding the country’s institutions together.
Sure! Here is the full English translation of the detailed explanation about the Prime Minister
and the Council of Ministers of India in easy language and long format:
While the President is the constitutional or formal head, the Prime Minister is the real center of
power.
The Prime Minister is elected from the political party or alliance that has a majority in the Lok
Sabha (Lower House of Parliament).
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🔸 Position of the Prime Minister
1. Executive Powers:
2. Legislative Powers:
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3. Foreign Affairs:
4. Emergency Powers:
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🔸 There are three levels of Ministers:
1. Cabinet Ministers:
2. Ministers of State:
3. Deputy Ministers:
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Prime Minister Council of Ministers
making Cabinet
Chairs Cabinet meetings Participates in Cabinet meetings
Advises the President Advises and supports the PM
🔸 Summary Table
Topic Explanation
Who is the Prime Head of government; leads day-to-day
Minister? decision-making
How is PM
Leader of the majority party in Lok Sabha
appointed?
Team of ministers assisting the PM in
What is the Council?
running the government
PM's Powers Executive, Legislative, Foreign, Emergency
Policy-making, Government leadership,
PM's Role
Representation
PM's Position Most powerful executive authority in India
Council's Role Handling ministries, implementing policies
🔸 Conclusion
The Prime Minister is the most powerful leader in India who manages the government, makes
policies, and represents the country both domestically and globally. The Council of Ministers
supports him in carrying out all these duties. This entire structure is the foundation of the
democratic executive system in India.
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2.4:SUPREME COURT OF INDIA : FUNCTION,JURISDICTION AND JUDICIAL
ACTIVISM?
"Can you tell me about the Supreme Court of India and its functions in easy language and in
a little detail?"
The Supreme Court of India is the highest court in the country. It is the top part of the Indian
judicial system. It protects the Constitution and makes sure that everyone gets justice.
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This is called original jurisdiction.
4️⃣Hears Appeals
🟣 Conclusion
The Supreme Court of India is very important. It protects laws, rights, and justice. It is called
the guardian of the Constitution and helps in maintaining law and order in the country.
"Can you explain to me in full detail and in easy language what Jurisdiction and Judicial
Activism are?"
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🟢 1. What is Jurisdiction? (In Easy Language and Full
Detail)
✅ Meaning of Jurisdiction:
Jurisdiction means the legal power or authority of a court to hear and decide cases.
🔹 1) Original Jurisdiction
The Supreme Court hears a case directly for the first time.
Example: Disputes between the Central Government and
State(s), or between two or more States.
Related Article: Article 131
🔹 2) Appellate Jurisdiction
🔹 3) Writ Jurisdiction
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o Mandamus
o Prohibition
o Certiorari
o Quo Warranto
🔹 4) Advisory Jurisdiction
The President of India can ask the Supreme Court for legal
advice on any important question.
Related Article: Article 143
🔹 5) Review Jurisdiction
In simple words, the court takes bold actions and interferes when needed, to make sure justice is
done.
Any person (even not directly affected) can file a case in the
court for the public good.
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Helps poor people and those who can't reach the court
easily.
🔹 3) Acts as a Watchdog
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Protects environment and human rights
✅ Criticism (Disadvantages):
🔷 Conclusion:
Both are important for maintaining democracy, justice, and fairness in the country.
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